Commercial gaming revenue across the United States soared to US$13.6 billion in the three months to 30 June 2021, smashing the previous quarterly record by more than 22% in a clear sign that pent-up demand is the real deal.
According to information from the American Gaming Association, the previous record of US$11.1 billion had been set in 3Q19 before being matched in 1Q21. However, Q2 smashed past that mark to take the US cumulative total through the first six months of 2021 to US$24.8 billion – already closing in on 2020’s full year revenue mark of US$30 billion and on track to overtake the US$43.6 billion reported in 2019 as the highest-grossing year ever for commercial gaming revenue.
The incredibly strong results should provide some encouragement for operators in Asia, who continue to face headwinds from the COVID-19 crisis, that better days are ahead.
“These first half results are truly remarkable,” said AGA President and CEO Bill Miller. “It is even more impressive when you consider commercial gaming revenue was at its lowest point ever just a year ago.
“This is a testament to our resilience and commitment to providing customers safe environments and world-class entertainment experiences.”
The AGA said that 22 out of 25 commercial casino states saw quarterly gaming revenue increases in 2Q21 compared to the second quarter of 2019 while 19 of 25 outperformed their first half of 2019.
Brick-and-mortar casino revenue was up almost 10% from its previous high in 3Q19 to US$11.8 billion due to easing capacity and amenity restrictions, coupled with continued consumer demand.
The AGA noted that, while three-quarters of commercial casinos began Q2 capped at 50% capacity or less, nearly every commercial casino had returned to full capacity by the end of June.
“The past 18 months have proven that this industry can persevere through hard times while remaining dedicated to our customers and communities,” said Miller. “COVID-19 is not yet in the rearview mirror, but I’m confident the record first half of 2021 has laid a strong foundation for the industry’s full recovery.”
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